WILD WEST AUTHOR ROLLS INTO TEXAS FOLLOWING ENTHUSIASTIC OKLAHOMA RECEPTION

The Pontotoc Conspiracy's Oklahoma and Texas promotional tour kicked off to a great start with author Phillip M. Swatek introducing his new historical novel in the heart of the Chickasaw Nation. The tour continues in Texas.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) October 29, 2003 - The Pontotoc Conspiracy and the books author, Phillip M. Swatek, received an enthusiastic reception in Ada, Oklahoma as the author kicked off his promotional tour of Oklahoma and Texas. The author will be traveling to Fort Worth and Dallas the week of October 27.

A historical novel recently published by the Florida Historical Society, The Pontotoc Conspiracy is based on actual events in desperado-ridden Indian Territory at the turn of the century, including an infamous quadruple hanging that forced the town of Ada, Oklahoma into the national spotlight in 1909. Several Texans figure prominently in the book, including assassin Jim Miller.

In Oklahoma, Phillip Swatek first presented The Pontotoc Conspiracy at the Ada Public Library, and signed books afterwards. Head librarian Jennifer Greenstreet reports a growing waiting list for the book. Those stopping by Monday to congratulate the author and to hear him speak included Glenda Galvin, Director of Chickasaw Heritage for the Chickasaw Nation.

On Tuesday, Phillip Swatek spoke to the Ada Lions Club at the Aldridge Hotel. Many members stayed afterwards to purchase books signed by the author and to share their stories of Adas Wild West heritage. Those in attendance included James Hamby, President of the First National Bank & Trust Company. We are really excited to have this story written about Adas history. Its a fascinating story and one that needs to be told. We were so impressed by Phils presentation that we invited him over to the bank afterwards and bought 20 copies of the book," said Hamby.

The Hastings store in Ada was Phillip Swateks next stop, where he signed books and shared stories of the era with shoppers who turned out for the occasion Tuesday night. Hastings manager Ryan Smith appreciated the additional traffic the signing generated, and took the opportunity to purchase several cases of The Pontotoc Conspiracy for the store. I see it as being one of our top sellers for Christmas," Smith said. The Pontotoc Conspiracy has generated great interest and gotten people talking."

Former Oklahoma State Senator Billie Floyd was one of the members in attendance when Phillip Swatek spoke to the Pontotoc County Historical & Genealogical Society on Wednesday. The book is fascinating reading. Phil has brought history to life, building the characters, writing a real story with real people. Im so impressed by the way he weaves facts and history into the narrative," Floyd began. This book will help put Ada on the map. It tells an important story that represents the end of the Old West."

Ada resident Ben Roan has been researching the history of the last days of Indian Territory for years, and attended both the library and historical society presentations of The Pontotoc Conspiracy: "I'm reading the book now and enjoying the storyteller style of how it's written. He describes the events like he was there, really brings out the history and makes it real."

The response has been beyond our wildest dreams," reports Phillip Swatek. My wife Margaret and I would like thank our many supporters in Oklahoma and Texas."

Several photos from the tour are posted on the website, www.pontotoc-conspiracy.com.

About The Pontotoc Conspiracy:
The historical novel The Pontotoc Conspiracy is published by the Florida Historical Society Press. Included in the 237-page hardcover book are twenty-three period maps and photographs. The book is available on Amazon.com and may be ordered through the publisher by phone, email, or mail. In Oklahoma, many Hasting stores currently have the book in stock. The Pontotoc Conspiracy sells for $23.95 plus shipping. Complimentary copies are available to qualified members of the media.

About Phillip M. Swatek:
Phil began his writing career as a newspaper reporter and editor in West Texas, and went on to become Washington Correspondent and Chief of the Washington Bureau for The Cincinnati Enquirer. His great fascination with the history of the Old West, and of Oklahoma in particular, is reflected in The Pontotoc Conspiracy. This is his first book.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phillip M. Swatek
phil@pontotoc-conspiracy.com
Shelby Swatek
mktg@pontotoc-conspiracy.com
Dr. Lewis Wynne
Florida Historical Society Press
wynne@flahistory.net

More detailed sales information is
available on the website:
http://www.pontotoc-conspiracy.com

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